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Jesus, you once called disciples, choosing twelve to follow you

Full Text

Jesus, you once called disciples, choosing twelve to follow you:
Simon (also known as Peter), Andrew and Bartholomew,
Philip, Thomas, James, and Matthew, Simon, Thaddaeus, John, and James–
Then there was the one called Judas. These were your disciples' names.

Women, too, were your disciples, sitting, learning, at your feet.
Mary knew your word was precious, even more than food to eat.
Martha trusted in your power when her brother Laz'rus died.
Women shared your journey, Lord, and stayed when you were crucified.

Lord, so many heard and followed, like the woman at the well.
Meeting you, the living water, she sought others she could tell.
Like the boy with loaves and fishes, like Zacchaeus in the tree,
Many gladly heard your message; many shared your ministry.

Jesus, still you call your people, "Come and follow me today!"
Some, like Paul, feel sudden wonder; some are brought up in your way.
Lord, no matter how we meet you, by your Spirit, make us new.
May we know your living presence; may we daily follow you.

Author: Carolyn Winfrey Gillette

Carolyn Winfrey Gillette is a hymn writer and Presbyterian pastor. Carolyn and her husband Bruce have been the co-pastors of Limestone Presbyterian Church in Wilmington, Delaware since August 2004.
Carolyn's hymns have been sung by congregations in every state of the USA and in several other countries; they have been on national PBS-TV three times and the BBC-TV in the United Kingdom. Noel Paul Stookey of "Peter, Paul and Mary" made a music video with Emmy winner Pete Staman of Carolyn's hymn, "O God, Our Words Cannot Express," which was written on September 11.
Her hymns are found on the national websites of the General Board of Discipleship of The United Methodist Church, UMCOR, the Presbyterian Church (USA), American Baptist Church… Go to person page >